The common cold is a self-limiting viral infection that affects the upper respiratory tracts in the body. Although several viruses have been attributed to the cause of common colds, rhinoviruses are the most common viruses behind common cold.
The most cold and flu symptoms include fever, runny nose, congestion in the chest and the head, cough, and sore throat. These symptoms usually present within a day or two after a person is exposed to the virus. Most symptoms fade within 7-10 days, but it is not uncommon for symptoms to persist for as long as three weeks [2].
Supplements To Prevent Cold and Flu
There are several vitamins to prevent cold. Many of these come from the food we eat too. Diet must be your primary source of food. But, if you can’t, there are several supplements to prevent colds and flu. Some of them are
Echinacea
Echinacea is one of the most common supplements for the prevention of cold and flu. This plant has properties that stimulate the immune system. Three different varieties of this plant — Purpurea, Pallida, and Angustifolia — are most used as supplements to prevent cold and flu [3].
This plant is effective against the common cold. Still, the differences in the plants themselves and the variations in the extraction methods don’t create clear evidence on why this plant is effective for the common cold. This plant is usually well-tolerated and has few side effects.
But, some of the side effects include a headache and an upset stomach.
One of the best supplements on the market is Echinacea and Vitamin C – 100 Capsules
Boost your immune system response when you use Echinacea and Vitamin C – 100 Capsules from Nature’sNature’s Way®. This multi-ingredient herbal supplement may lower vulnerability to the common cold and relieve symptoms related to cold and flu.
Research suggests that this formula may help maintain normal immune response. It could improve the extent and duration of symptoms related to the cold and upper respiratory tract. Together, Echinacea and vitamin C could be beneficial in the urinary tract’s inflammatory conditions, bone joints, bloodstream‚, gums, and tonsils.
The antioxidant properties of these specially formulated capsules from Nature’sNature’s Way® may help reduce internal free radical damage. Consult your health practitioner about using Echinacea and Vitamin C – 100 Capsules from Nature’sNature’s Way® regularly as your dietary supplement and fight inflammatory conditions from within.
Elderberry
Elderberry is generally used for treating the flu. It has antioxidant properties and immune-regulating benefits. Research proves that elderberry reduces the symptoms of the flu [4].
While several studies conducted using different variations of elderberry, overall, most varieties have proven to be effective for the treatment of cold and flu. Elderberry is generally well-tolerated, and there have been few cases of any adverse effects for the drug.
One great supplement to use is this elderberry syrup — 8 fl. Oz.
Traditional Immune Formula! Elderberries have long been used in Native America and the Vermont farm kitchen. Traditionally used for general well-being during the cold season‚ they naturally contain Vitamin C.
Apitherapy honey has never been heated or filtered‚ and thus it retains the beneficial traces of pollen‚ propolis‚ and beeswax which the flowers and bees have provided. Take the following precautions
- Do not exceed five servings per day.
- Store in a cool‚ dry place.
- Do not use if safety seal is broken or missing.
- Keep out of reach of children.
- Keep your licensed healthcare practitioner informed when using this product.
- Do not give to children under one year of age.
- Allergen Caution: Bee products may cause an allergic reaction in some people.
Oregano Oil
Oregano oil is known for its antiviral and anti-inflammatory properties. It has several healing properties like
- Carvacrol
- Thymol
- Terpinene
Oregano oil is used to treat cold and flu symptoms, but it can be consumed in different forms depending on your preference. It can be purchased as an herbal supplement, tincture, or essential oil.
One popular supplement is Oregano Oil 60 Vegan Capsules
Standardized Oregano Oil contains 75-85% carvacrol and supports a healthy immune response. The dietary needs include
- Corn Free
- Dairy-Free
- Gluten-Free
- Made in the USA
- Salt-Free
- Sugar-Free
- Vegan
- Vegetarian
- Wheat-Free
- Yeast Free
Zinc
Zinc is an essential nutrient in the body’s immune system. Variations in the body’s zinc levels can cause the body to be vulnerable to infections [5]. Zinc has also been shown to inhibit the replication of the cold virus. Because of these effects, zinc supplements are thought to effectively prevent and treat the common cold.
One supplement that you can use is Zinc Picolinate 100 capsules
A zinc supplement may serve as a more convenient solution, especially for pregnant women or those who don’t eat a lot of animal products. Each capsule of PureFormulas’PureFormulas’ Zinc Picolinate contains 50 mg of a bioavailable zinc complex.
One bottle of Zinc Picolinate by PureFormulas contains 100 capsules. At the recommended dosage of one capsule daily‚, it should last for over three months.
Vitamin C – Ascorbic Acid
Vitamin C is a water-soluble vitamin that has an important role in various processes in the body. Several studies have shown that Vitamin C is helpful in treating the common cold.
Even though regular intake does not change the number of incidences of cold in a person, the average duration of the cold has been reduced by, on an average, 10 percent in people.
[Also Read: Top 5 Essential Supplements and Vitamins for Kids]
One supplement that you can use is Supreme C With Bioflavonoids — 100 tablets
Each tablet of PureFormulas’PureFormulas’ Supreme C with Bioflavonoids 1‚000 mg provides vitamin C in the form of ascorbic acid‚ in addition to a bioflavonoid complex with additional antioxidant properties. Antioxidants work to fight off free radicals that can harm your cells.
In addition, this natural source of vitamin C also promotes efficient wound healing, as well as the synthesis of neurotransmitters and hormones like serotonin and l-carnitine. Take one tablet of Supreme C by PureFormulas daily‚ unless otherwise directed by your doctor. One bottle contains 100 tablets, which should last for over three months.
